Yale Police Officer Tristan Kiekel Wraps up Assignment at New Haven Animal Shelter

Yale Police Officer Tristan Kiekel recently completed an eight-month assignment at the New Haven Animal Shelter doing what she enjoys most: caring for animals.

Kiekel was assigned to the New Haven Animal Shelter in March when the Yale Police Department (YPD) expanded its ongoing collaboration with the New Haven Police Department. During her time at the shelter, Kiekel was responsible for enforcing state and city ordinances and statutes concerning the animals. She also assisted with rehabilitating and finding homes for the animals. Understanding the importance of exercising and its impact on the well-being of the dogs, Kiekel suggested creating a chart that tracked the amount of exercise the dogs received. She also created a book of resources for the shelter that included rescue shelters, animal shelters, and rehabilitators.

Kiekel learned to care for and protect animals at five when she helped her mother handle, transport, and rehabilitate injured wildlife. She grew up with animals in the home, which she said developed her skills working with animals.

My life has been dedicated to rescuing displaced pets and animals in distress. Officer Tristan Kiekel

Kiekel, who decided to go into law enforcement because she wanted to change people’s lives for the better, said the most fulfilling part of her job at YPD and her short-term assignment at the animal shelter is being able to help families during their lowest point.

“Animals are a part of our heart and soul. The people who care about animals care as if they’re a family member,” said Kiekel.

Working with the Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter team in Branford to instill change and save medical cases —old or injured animals — made Kiekel’s work meaningful and successful. She established connections between the shelter and over 40 resources to aid animals and facilitate their adoption.

Kiekel completed the Nuisance Animal Control Officer course to further her training in working with animals. She was recently awarded a certificate to serve as an Animal Control Officer in Connecticut and is Yale University’s first Animal Control Officer.

When she comes across injured animals while on patrol, Kiekel teaches officers how to appropriately intervene when animals are fighting or handle an animal with rabies.

“Animals are my gateway into the community and their hearts. We have an obligation to help them,” Kiekel said. “Working at the New Haven Animal Shelter was one of the most fulfilling assignments I’ve had. The opportunity would not be possible without the support of Chief Anthony Campbell.”